Apollo Theater

The Apollo Theater is a multi-use venue at 253 West 125th Street in Harlem, designed by George Keister in the neoclassical style. Built in 1913 as a burlesque house for white patrons, it was transformed into a showcase for African American talent starting in 1934. The theater has approximately 1,500 seats across three levels, and both its facade and interior are designated New York City landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today the nonprofit Apollo Theater Foundation runs the venue along with recording studios and two smaller auditoriums at the Victoria Theater. Visitors can experience the famous Amateur Night at the Apollo, where the audience judges novice performers—a tradition that has launched many careers. The theater also hosts live music, dance, theatrical, and comedy acts, often featuring multiple artists on one bill. Beyond performances, the Apollo offers film screenings, tapings, and non-performance events like speeches and debates. Its deep influence on African American culture makes it a must-see destination for anyone interested in music history and entertainment.